Get ready to plunge tomorrow

The 34th annual Jamestown Penguin Plunge will be held at noon tomorrow, Friday, Jan. 1, at Mackerel Cove.

More than 500 people are expected to brave the icy waters in support of the 2,700 children and adults who participate in Special Olympics RI.

Last year’s Plunge raised approximately $50,000 for Special Olympics, according to Tracy Garabedian, director of event management for the organization.

“I hope to raise $60,000 this year,” she said.

Past participants may notice a change or two in this year’s event – namely, a 20- by 30-foot tent set up on the beach where participants can register, drop off their money and get their incentives, according to Garabedian. Previously, participants had to register at the police station, she said.

The Special Olympics tent and staff will be at the beach at 8 a.m., but the actual plunge happens at noon, she said.

“People should plan to get there early,” she said. “Parking can be tough.”